MONTGOMERY — Members of the Senate County and Municipal Government Committee voted Tuesday to overhaul the Alabama Board of Pharmacy.
The bill sponsored by State Rep. Kerry Underwood (R-Tuscumbia) changes the board's makeup, including adding four members to the current five, a new secretary appointed by the board who hasn't served in any capacity with the board over the last five years, and removing the board's authority to set "non-disciplinary administrative fines."
Underwood said in committee on Tuesday, “You’ll get a better mix and better decision-making.”
“There are many in this room who thought it should be more punitive,” Underwood said.
A recent report found several "significant issues” on the board.
The issues included how the board reported income, over-fining, levying non-specified fees, charging non-licensed entities, meeting minutes that are inconsistent with board actions, violations of Alabama's Open Meetings Act, failure to file oaths of office with the secretary of state's office, failing to deposit receipts promptly, violating the state's open-bidding rules, inaccurate invoicing, overpaying vendors over the contracted amount and unlawfully procuring supplies and services.
The bill was amended in committee so it will still need to pass the Senate and the House before heading to Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
